WAUSAU - Archery is a sport that dates back years and years. The modern day version is a recreational activity, enjoyed by all ages. A group outside of Merrill is making sure to keep the tradition going. From ancient Egypt to hunting in the Northwoods today, archery has storied past. The Rib Mountain Bowmen are trying to improve the sports future by offering a free youth program."We started it just because, there's a lot of people that don't get involved in archery and we're trying to grow the sport," says Jeremy Reif. He was the Youth Program Co-Ordinator at Rib Mountain Bowmen.
They offered equipment that is kid friendly and proper instruction.The sport of archery has seen a recent rise in popularity, due to some Hollywood blockbuster films.Brinly Lahr of Rosholt says, "When I saw the 'Hunger Games' and I saw Katniss shooting her bow, I thought 'I'd like that too. It would be so much fun.'"Another big push comes from parents who hunt.